The secret to developing win/win solutions is to listen to the people closest to the problem, recognizing that their honest input and insight are vital to team effectiveness.

-John J. Murphy, Pulling Together

Today's quote is simple, yet powerful, and too often missed when we, as executives, are trying to fix problems.  When a problem or opportunity has become so large it is necessary for an exec to come in and help manage the issue, it can be very easy to quickly look at the problem, devise a solution, and roll it out.  This feels so confident and efficient that it makes sense that it happens so often.  As leaders, we are used to "swooping in" and saving the day - that's probably part of how most of us became leaders in the first place.  

But what is missing in this situation is what John J. Murphy points out - there is no team in this solution, and there is a very good chance it is not creating a win/win.  No matter how elegant the solution you come up with on your own, the whole process could be greatly enhanced by taking the time to carefully discuss the issue with those people most intimately involved with the issue, no matter what level they may be at or what department they may be in.  Not only will you get the best insight this way, but you will make everyone feel valued and involved in the process of building the solution.